Ep 4. Wischmeyer Family

The fourth episode of Supernanny's first season follows the Wischmeyer family and their three children: six-year-old Madeline, four-year-old Adam, and two-year-old Alexandria. The parents, Todd and Bridget, are struggling to keep up with their children's constant misbehavior and lack of discipline. Todd works during the day, while Bridget stays at home with the kids.

The episode begins with Supernanny, Jo Frost, observing the family's daily routine and interactions. She notices that the children have no rules or consequences when they misbehave. Jo witnesses Madeline and Adam throwing toys, screaming, and refusing to eat their meals. Alexandria, the youngest, is still in diapers and not potty trained.

Jo sits down with Todd and Bridget to discuss their parenting styles and what they hope to accomplish with Jo's help. Todd admits he has a hard time disciplining the children because he doesn't want to take away their happiness, while Bridget becomes emotional about the situation. Jo suggests a structured routine that includes a set schedule of meals, playtime, and quiet time. Jo also recommends a reward system for the children's good behavior.

The next day, Jo teaches Todd and Bridget how to create a reward chart for the children. For every good behavior they exhibit, they would receive a sticker, and once the chart is filled, they would get a prize. Jo also shows the parents how to use timeouts as a disciplinary measure and how to praise their children's positive behavior.

The first test of the new system comes during mealtime. Madeline and Adam immediately began to refuse their meals and throw their food. Jo instructs Todd and Bridget to use timeouts whenever the children refuse to eat, and eventually, Madeline and Adam come around and finish their meals without any further hassle.

Jo spends time with each child one on one, teaching them how to communicate their emotions and how to properly behave. She also helps Alexandria transition from diapers to potty training by showing Bridget the proper technique and rewarding Alexandria for her successes.

At the end of the week, the family sits down to review their progress and discuss what they have learned. Todd and Bridget are relieved to see their children behaving better and are pleased with the progress they have seen. Jo reminds them that maintaining discipline and structure is crucial to the children's development and promises to check in on them in the future.

Overall, the Wischmeyer Family episode of Supernanny highlights the importance of structure, discipline, and positive reinforcement in parenting. With Jo's guidance, Todd and Bridget learn how to create a structured routine that meets the needs of their children and helps them establish rules and consequences for misbehavior. The show offers a valuable lesson for parents who may be struggling to maintain discipline and order in their households.